World Suicide Prevention Day: Progress in Maine

PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- Governor Paul LePage signed an executive order that will require all state agencies to provide their employees with suicide prevention training.

First Lady Ann LePage also recognized Maine's suicide prevention program with an annual tea at the Blaine House.

Nancy Thompson was one of the advocates recognized at the event. She lost her son Timmy to suicide in 2004, just six weeks before he was to graduate from high school. She helped pass legislation that will require all school staff members in Maine to be trained in suicide prevention. She says talking about suicide is the key to saving lives.

"The tough thing is, to have the bravery to go out there and go ahead and talk about suicide, because it's not going to create suicide," Thompson said. "The more people talk about it, the more they're aware of it, the more they can help people."

If you recognize any of the following signs in someone you know, you should seek professional help:

Hopelessness, uncontrolled anger, acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, withdrawing from loved ones, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time, and dramatic mood changes.

You should show that person that you care about them. Let them know they are not alone, and ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide.

If you need help for yourself or someone else, there are two 24 hour hotlines available: